$20K Reward for Info in Tossed Pit Bull Puppy Case

The dog broke its neck when it was thrown out of the car

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Two groups are offering a reward of $20,000 for information leading to the arrest of the individual responsible for throwing a pit bull puppy out of a moving vehicle on Long Island, stranding the canine with a broken neck.

The Suffolk County SPCA says it has increased its initial award of $2,000 to $5,000. Another $15,000 has been offered by the New York City-based ASPA.

Puppy Thrown from Moving Car Breaks Neck

A pit bull puppy is hospitalized with a broken neck after it was stuck in a plastic bag and thrown out of a moving car on Long Island, authorities say. Police are now looking for the driver. Tracie Strahan reports. (Published Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012)

Caregivers at the West Islip Emergency Veterinary Clinic have named the dog Joey. Suffolk SPCA Chief Roy Gross says the perky-eared pup has bite marks on his neck, indicating he may have been used as bait at dog fights. He is also malnourished.

"He was in severe shock," said veterinarian Dr. Lynda Loudon, who treated the dog. "He was crying in pain from his injuries."

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Joey is still sporting bandages and receiving around-the-clock pain medication and IV fluids.

"It's unimaginable," said Loudon. "You just can't fathom how or why someone could do this to a little innocent puppy."

Joey was injured when he was thrown out the window Saturday afternoon near the Sagtikos Parkway in Brentwood. A driver who saw it happen called authorities.

Loudon said the dog has another three to four months to recover. Already, there are at least 15 requests of potential owners eager to adopt the loving pup.

"He gives us kisses every time we try to go in and help him," said Loudon. "He's gonna be a good dog for somebody."

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